Woodbury Leadership Academy seeks approval for high school expansion on Globe Drive

In the heart of Woodbury, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the council chamber to discuss a significant development for local education. The Woodbury Leadership Academy, a tuition-free charter school, is poised to expand its offerings to include grades 9 through 12, a move that could reshape the educational landscape for many families in the area.

Eric Searls, representing the academy, presented the proposal for a conditional use permit to extend the school's operations within its existing building at 8147 Globe Drive. Currently serving 890 students and employing 85 staff members, the academy has been a fixture in the community since 2014. The expansion is expected to accommodate an additional 300 to 400 students, bringing the total enrollment to between 1,200 and 1,300.

The council's discussion highlighted the careful planning that has gone into this expansion. The site, previously home to the Minnesota School of Business, has undergone several transformations, including a recent addition of a multipurpose gym. The academy's leadership has been proactive in addressing potential traffic concerns, implementing a staggered pickup approach to alleviate congestion during peak hours. This strategy aims to prevent traffic from spilling onto nearby roads, a concern that had previously affected the area.

Marsha Kennedy, a member of the planning commission, echoed the importance of traffic management, noting that the school will share space with commercial tenants for several years. The commission's review emphasized student safety and the need for clear pathways between buildings, especially during busy drop-off and pickup times.

The council members expressed their support for the academy's plans, recognizing the potential benefits of consolidating educational facilities on one campus. They also acknowledged the need for ongoing communication with local businesses to ensure a smooth transition as the school expands.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council unanimously approved the conditional use permit, marking a significant step forward for the Woodbury Leadership Academy. With this expansion, the academy is set to enhance its educational offerings and continue its commitment to serving the community, all while navigating the challenges of growth with careful planning and community engagement.